What Is Gum
Disease?

Periodontitis (gum disease) is caused by bacteria and food that collect at the gum line as dental plaque. Plaque is removed by regular cleaning and flossing. If plaque is not properly removed it can harden into tartar. This causes the gum starts to come away from the tooth forming pockets and the tartar spreads below the gum line. Over time the bone that supports the teeth wears away, the gums shrink, eventually the teeth may become loose, and in some instances, this may lead to tooth loss.

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Non-Surgical Treatments

If you have a milder form of gum disease (gingivitis), the condition can be managed by:

Scaling

Scaling removes tartar and bacteria from your tooth surfaces and below the gum line by using hand instruments or an ultrasonic device.

Root Planing

Root planing involves smoothing the root surfaces. This helps promote gum tissue growth and prevents further build-up of tartar.

Antibiotics

Topical or oral antibiotics may help clear bacterial infections. Antibiotics may involve placing an antibiotic gel into the pockets surrounding the teeth or the use of antibiotic mouthwash.

Surgical Treatments

If you have advanced periodontitis (gum disease), you may need dental surgery such as:

Flap Surgery

Flap surgery is also known as pocket reduction surgery. A small nick is made in the gum and the tissue carefully folded back. This exposes the tooth roots for more effective deep cleaning. As periodontitis often leads to bone loss, the bone may be reshaped before the gum tissue is stitched back in place. After the gums have healed, it should be easier to clean the areas around your teeth and maintain healthy gums.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting may be required if periodontitis has led to bone loss. The periodontal specialist will remedy this by placing real or artificial bone under the gums. The bone graft helps hold your teeth in place preventing tooth loss.

Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)

GTR may be required if periodontitis has led to bone loss. GTR involves placing a thin sheet of material (membrane) between the gum and the bone. This prevents tissue from growing into areas where bone structure is needed.

Tissue-stimulating Proteins

Tissue stimulating proteins may be required if periodontitis has led to bone loss. This involves applying a special gel to the exposed tooth roots. This gel contains proteins found in developing tooth enamel that stimulates healthy bone and tissue growth.

What are the Benefits
of Treatment?

The benefits of treating gum disease include, but are not limited to:

Healthier gums and a fresher mouth
Reduced or no bleeding of gums when brushing
Reduced or no soreness of gums when brushing
Stronger gums means stronger teeth!
Reduced or no discomfort when eating
Longer lasting teeth and healthier gums

Who Can Get Gum Disease?

Most people have some type of gum disease, with a few patients being at risk of more advanced forms. Factors that may increase the risk of advanced gum disease include but are not limited to: diabetes, smoking (including e-cigarettes), stress, poor diet, obesity, a family history of gum disease, or certain medication. Maintaining good oral hygiene is paramount to prevent symptoms worsening.

Do You Have
Periodontal Disease?

If you experience any of the below symptoms, please get in touch with a member of our team:

– Bleeding gums when brushing
– Bleeding gums when eating
– Red, swollen gums
– Receding gums
– Bad breath
– Spaces appearing between teeth
– Loose teeth or teeth changing position in the mouth

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can gum disease be reversed?

Gum disease can be reversed in its early stages with good oral hygiene and regular professional cleans. However, if the disease advances, it may not be fully reversed, but can be managed with specialist treatment.

Can I still get periodontitis even if I brush and floss regularly?

Yes, it is possible to develop periodontitis even if you regularly brush and floss. Good oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing and using interdental brushes will help to prevent gum disease.

How can I prevent gum disease?

To prevent gum disease ensure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss and use interdental brushes and visit the dentist regularly. Avoid using tobacco products, maintain a healthy diet, and manage stress. These steps will help you keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Is gum disease contagious?

In short, no. But, certain factors contribute to the spread of gum disease between individuals in close contact. For example, repeated contact through saliva may increase your risk for periodontal disease.

Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?

Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing is often an early sign of gum disease (gingivitis). It indicates that you have inflammed and sensitive gums. The build-up of plaque along the gumline may irritates the gums leading to bleeding.

What are some common risk factors for gum disease?

Some common risk factors for gum disease include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy), certain medications, genetic predisposition, and poor oral hygiene habits.

What is the link between gum disease and overall health?

Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, and pregnancy complications. This is because the bacteria that causes gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, leading to inflammation and damage.

What Our Patients Say

I just want to say thank you for making me feel at ease last Friday during my Re-Root Canal. I can’t actually believe how pain-free it was so thank you for getting me through it.

Zorina Eborall

“I would like to apologise for getting a little emotional when I recently attended your practise. I was so grateful and appreciative for all your efforts and the hard work you carried out. You cannot imagine what it means to me. I would like to wish you and your team a very happy, peaceful and prosperous new year. Once again, many thanks and best wishes.”

Stephen Spencer

Overall great experience with Dr. Nida at Shiraz Endodontics. She was very knowledgeable, professional, and explained everything clearly. She did a thorough oral examination on my molar, and I felt at ease during the consultation. The practice itself is conveniently located within Solihull, with onsite car park. I highly recommend Dr. Nida to anyone who needs an endodontist in the Midlands.

Ahmed Hany

Opening Hours

Mondays – Fridays 8:30am – 5:30pm

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Monday	8:30am – 5:30pm
Tuesday	8:30am – 5:30pm
Wednesday	8:30am – 5:30pm
Thursday	8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday	8:30am – 5:30pm
Saturday	Closed
Sunday	Closed

What Is GumDisease?